Based in and around the ancient historic woodlands of Sherwood Forest, the 5G Connected Forest programme is led by Nottinghamshire County Council in partnership with academic researchers and local businesses.
With funding of £5m from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) Rural Connected Communities programme, matched by the consortium partners including ISPB, the programme focuses on how 5G technology could protect and promote an area of outstanding natural and cultural heritage like Sherwood Forest and Rufford Abbey.
ISPB are testing the commercial potential for these new developments and creating opportunities to build the skills and research capacity in the area; inspiring local people and businesses to adopt and innovate with this new technology.
The 25 month pilot includes:
- 3D modelling and virtual reality headsets designed to bring the Robin Hood legend to life and allow the wearer to explore and interact with the Forest
- Identifying the potential for testing of semi-autonomous vehicles to transport visitors
- Technology to teach children about the natural habitat of the forest and Rufford Abbey to inspire the next generation of conservationists
- Robots or drones capable of surveying and monitoring the health of the forest while minimising the impact on the environment
- A 5G Innovation Hub (collaborating with NTU's SWIFt Centre) to host new research and provide businesses with access to facilities and trial new ideas and innovations
- An education and skills programme for local people and businesses, delivered through Nottinghamshire's new Digital Innovation Centre at Worksop Turbine
"Being born and bred in Nottinghamshire, I'm delighted that ISPB have had the opportunity to help create this brilliant project. I'm convinced that the research and developments in the 5G Connected Forest have the potential to not only boost the County's place as a prime location for visitors but also to inspire innovation in managing our precious environment, and bring new skills and opportunities to the County. As a small business, and partner in the project, ISPB are happy to be investing in the 5G Connected Forest. Along with our not for profit sister company Innovation Nottinghamshire at the Digital Innovation Centre, we see the project being a catalyst to inspire new digital products and services, as well as providing a boost to the Nottinghamshire economy."
Nick Mellors, Director, ISPB
The £10m project focuses on how 5G technology could support the tourism and environment protection sectors, inspire local people and businesses to adopt and innovate with this new technology and looks to boost the local economy as part of the county’s post-pandemic recovery.
Nottinghamshire County Council
For more information, visit the 5G Connected Forest website here.
The Consortium is led by Nottinghamshire County Council and includes ISPB, Nottingham Trent University, Birmingham City University, Gooii, Netmore IOT Solutions and Parkwood Outdoors.
